Apparatus and method for increased security of wireless transactions

ABSTRACT

A mobile communication device with security mechanisms is provided for enabling wireless personal information transfer with increased security. In another embodiment of the invention, a mobile communication device is used to confirm a transaction.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

The present invention relates to wireless electronic data transfer, andto circuits and methods for secure wireless information transactions.

A Smartcard is a plastic card with an embedded integrated circuitcomputer chip (i.e., a piece of thin, semiconductor material, such assilicon) that has been chemically processed and etched with a specificset of electrical characteristics such as circuits, storage, and logicelements of smartcard elements. When coupled with a Smartcard reader,this combination has the processing power to perform the complexoperations previously requiring a personal computer or other large logicdevice.

In the form of a credit card, a Smartcard contains a built-insemi-conductor chip. The chip memory stores payment information, e.g.,account information, similar to a magnetic stripe on the back of acredit card, but may also include additional information such asissuer-defined controls (e.g., online authorization frequencyrequirements, floor limits, credit limit, etc.). Many smartcards issuedin the United States will also include an embossed sixteen-digit accountnumber in the magnetic stripe. The non-chip features allow the smartcardto be used at storefronts that are not equipped to interact with smartchips. Smartcards can also be contactless or wireless, meaning thesmartcard transfers data to and from another Smartcard enabled devicevia a built-in antenna without physically touching the other Smartcardenabled device.

Smartcard chips can be categorized as either intelligent chips or memorychips. Intelligent chips, i.e., smart chips, contain a microprocessorthat has various read/write capabilities (e.g., EEPROM and ROM space),and the smart chip interacts with a Smartcard reader using softwareapplications stored on the chip. Conversely, some Smartcard memory chipslack processing capability and do not manage files dynamically.Generally, the Smartcards currently issued by bank card issuers in theUnited States for payment contain intelligent chips and have processingpower. For example, a Smartcard could contain an access controlapplication where the smart chip authenticates the cardholder andprovides the user with access to a previously locked door or computernetwork. Information on the smart chip is read from a Smartcard reader,and the smart chip is designed so that some of the information stored inthe smart chip cannot be changed.

A smart chip operates similarly to a personal computer, e.g., it cancontrol the execution of the applications and it can store information.A smart chip can also lack processing power—be “dumb card.” The primarydifference with a smart chip is that the operating system is programmedinto the ROM portion of the chip at the time of the manufacture andgenerally cannot be altered. There exist several different smartcardoperating systems. Between the operating system and the application isan application programming interface (“API”)—the message managementprocess through which the operating system and the applicationsinteract. The operating system and breadth of applications on the smartchip are not necessarily important to the merchant and card user, aslong as it is an open platform that can interface with a Smartcardreader and provide payment information to the merchant's POS terminal.

Software applications on the chip are designed for security and toprocess transactions. Additional applications or information may beadded by the issuing bank, or potentially the card holder, such as aloyalty program, a stored value application, an e-ticket program, or asecure access verification program. When the Smartcard is used totransact payment, a point of sale (“POS”) device often requires a PIN toauthenticate the user. Conventional debit and ATM networks authenticatethe PIN entered by the cardholder using a back-end network (e.g., thePOS device contacts, directly or indirectly, the financial network ofthe user that corresponds to the account number stored in the smartcard.The financial network authenticates the PIN number by comparing theaccount number and the PIN number associated with the account number tothe PIN number entered by the user) since the PIN is not stored ondebit/ATM cards. Unlike an ATM transaction, in a Smartcard transaction aPIN entered by the user is authenticated by the security system residenton the chip which examines secure information stored in the chip andcompares it to the entered PIN number.

According to ISO standards, a smartcard chip operates in one of twomodes either in contactless mode or in contact mode. In contactlessmode, a smartcard chip is enabled to send and receive wirelesscommunications (e.g., radio signals) through a first data channel (ordata channel device). In contact mode, a smartcard chip is enabled tosend and receive direct contact communications (e.g., electricallycoupled signals) through a second data channel. Generally, a smartcardis pre-programmed to operate in a contactless mode and contact mode inconformance with ISO standards.

For example, when using a Smartcard to purchase goods, the consumer willhand their Smartcard to a merchant and the Smartcard is inserted into aSmartcard reader. The chip contains certain contact points that line upwith the Smartcard reader to transfer information. For cards that haveboth a magnetic stripe and the chip, the Smartcard reader may beprogrammed to utilize the chip technology over the magnetic stripe sincethe chip is more secure. If the Smartcard contains both credit and debitapplications, the cardholder must first select a payment method. At thispoint, the smart chip and record reader communicate to determine severalthings, such as whether the terminal has on-line authorizationcapabilities, whether the card is authentic, and processingrestrictions, e.g., expiration date.

The card communicates to the reader the type of risk management checksthat the card issuer wants to be performed, such as the floor limit,random online processing, and a velocity check, that determines whetheran on-line authorization is necessary. Next, the POS terminal requestsauthorization via the back-end processing network that connects to theseller's financial institution, home office, or bank (if necessary),just like magnetic stripe card. Upon approval, the Smartcard reader andthe smart chip may exchange additional information such as reward pointsor e-coupons for the next purchase. This information is then stored onthe smart chip for future use, or could be used for the currenttransaction.

In contactless, or wireless, Smartcard applications, informationcontained on the Smartcard is transferred in one direction. Informationis provided to the Smartcard reader when the Smartcard is placed inclose proximity to the Smartcard reader. For example, a Mobil Speedpasssmartcard is waved near a gas pump (containing a reader) to permit theuser to purchase gasoline from the pump. When the Speedpass is placednear the gas pump, the user's account information is wirelessly providedto a reader in the gas pump. The account information is then used forapproval of and billing of a gasoline purchase that will follow.

In some applications, information is transferred between the Smartcardand the Smartcard reader. For example commuters may use a Smartcard topay for subway or bus transit, where fares are conventionally paid atthe beginning or conclusion of the metro transit. The Smartcard storesan “electronic cash” value on the card. When entering the metro theSmartcard is placed near the smart reader on a turnstile and the readerreceives payment information from the Smartcard. The user provides noadditional information to the Smartcard or Smartcard reader, and doesnot take any further action affirming the transaction. If the Smartcardhas at least a predetermined amount of electronic cash, then the smartreader provides a signal to the Smartcard indicating the metro entrypoint and provides a signal to the turnstile, permitting the user toenter. If there are not sufficient electronic funds, then the Smartcardreader does not provide a signal to the turnstile, and therefore theuser is not permitted to enter. To exit the metro at the end of thetransit, the user places the Smartcard near the Smartcard reader of aturnstile. The Smartcard reader determines the fare (by reading theentry point from the Smartcard), and deducts the fare from the value ofthe electronic cash stored on the card. The Smartcard reader provides asignal to the turnstile permitting the user to exit.

As described above, a contactless Smartcard can be used for informationtransactions (e.g., subway or bus fare transit). However, there islittle to ensure that the person using the contactless Smartcard is thesame person who owns the Smartcard. As Smartcards are typicallypre-programmed to operate in a contactless mode, the information on asmartcard is available to be read by any device capable of readingsmartcards. For example, a valid subway card or Speedpass may be used byanyone in possession of the transit card/Speedpass, respectively, eventhough the possessor of the transit card/Speedpass may not be the ownerof the transit card/Speedpass. Therefore, it would be desirable to havea contactless system that provides an increased level of security forthe information contained within the Smartcard.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides methods and apparatus for wirelesstransactions with increased security.

In an embodiment of the invention, a smartlink module is provided to becoupled to a mobile communication device for providing the mobilecommunication device with the ability to transmit and receive wirelessSmartcard communications to other Smartcard enabled devices. Onceinitialized, the mobile communication device controls the smartlinkmodule whereby the mobile communication device selectively enables thesmartlink module to transmits information. The mobile communicationdevice requires user authentication before enabling the smartlinkmodule. The mobile communication device also authenticates the smartlinkmodule before enabling the module In another embodiment the mobilecommunication device selects the information that will be provided bythe smartlink. In yet another embodiment, a mobile communication deviceis configured to be a wireless Smartcard transceiver.

In another embodiment of the invention, a mobile communication devicefacilitates information transfer. Typically, a mobile communicationdevice mediates a financial transaction, whereby the mobilecommunication device authenticates the user prior to providing theuser's information as part of the transaction. In one aspect, the mobilecommunication device requests approval of a financial transaction andwhen the approval is received, the mobile communication device transmitsthe approval to seller to complete a transaction.

In another exemplary embodiment of the invention, a mobile communicationdevice is used to confirm a transaction. In this embodiment, when a userconducts a transaction, the user's mobile communication device is usedto authenticate the user and confirm that the user is interested incompleting the transaction.

In another exemplary embodiment of the invention, a smartlink module isprovided, which comprises a smartcard processor, where the processorincludes a first data channel being adapted to wirelessly communicatedata between said smartcard processor and a third party terminal and asecond data channel, said second data channel device being adapted toelectrically couple said smartcard processor with a mobile communicationdevice.

In another exemplary embodiment of the invention, a transactioncontroller is provided that comprises a mobile user interface device anda processor that comprises a data channel being adapted to wirelesslycommunicate transaction data between said processor and a third partyterminal and said mobile user interface device being adapted to transmituser information to said processor said processor being disposed betweensaid mobile user interface device and said third party terminal.

In another exemplary embodiment of the invention, a mated transactioncontroller is provided a smartlink module having a unique identificationnumber and a first confirmation logic circuit, a mobile communicationdevice coupled to said smartlink module, said device having a secondunique identification number and a second confirmation logic circuit andwherein before said device enables said smartlink module to provide datainformation to a third party circuit said first logic circuitauthenticates said smartlink module and before said smartlink moduleprovides data information to said third party circuit said second logiccircuit authenticates said mobile communication device.

In another exemplary embodiment of the invention, a transactionconfirmation system is provided that includes a first computer systemfor storing and maintaining a user's information and for approving atransaction, a second computer for facilitating a transaction beingselectively coupled to said first computer to transmit transactioninformation and to receive a signal back from said first computer and athird party transaction device adapted to wirelessly receive user datafrom a transaction controller and adapted to provide said user data tosaid second computer.

In another exemplary embodiment of the invention, a method ofauthorizing a data transaction is provided that includes the steps ofreceiving a user input from a user at a mobile user interface device;validating an identity of said user within mobile user interface deviceto produce a validation signal; producing a validation signal based onsaid validating; receiving said validation signal at an input port of asmartcard processor; and transmitting user personal data from smartcardprocessor.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features and advantages of the invention will be morereadily understood from the following detailed description of theinvention which is provided in connection with the accompanyingdrawings, in which:

FIG. 1 shows the smartlink coupled with a mobile communication device inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 is a cut away, front view of the smartlink of FIG. 1 inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 3 shows the smartlink and mobile communication device of FIGS. 1and 2 used in a transaction;

FIG. 4 shows the smartlink and mobile communication device of FIG. 3used in a transaction in greater detail;

FIG. 5 shows a flow chart depicting the operation of the devices ofFIGS. 1-4 according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 6 shows a smartlink module in accordance with another exemplaryembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 7 shows a flow chart depicting the operation of the device of FIG.6 according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 8 shows a cutaway view of a mobile communication device inaccordance with yet another exemplary embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 9 shows a smartlink capable device acting as a digital cashregister in accordance with yet another exemplary embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 10 shows a flow chart depicting a method of use of an exemplaryembodiment of the invention in a vending machine context;

FIG. 11 shows a smartlink capable device used in a transaction inaccordance with another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 12 shows a flow chart depicting a method of use of an exemplaryembodiment of the invention in with a device as depicted in FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 shows a smartlink capable device used in a transaction inaccordance with yet another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 14 shows a flow chart depicting a method of use of an exemplaryembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 15 shows a mobile communication device used in a remote transactionconfirmation process in accordance with another exemplary embodiment ofthe invention; and

FIG. 16 shows a flow chart depicting a method of use of an exemplaryembodiment of the invention in a remote transaction confirmationcontext.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In the following detailed description, reference is made to theaccompanying drawings, which form a part hereof, and in which is shownby way of illustration specific embodiments in which the invention maybe practiced. These embodiments are described in sufficient detail toenable those of ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention,and it is to be understood that structural, logical, or proceduralchanges may be made to the specific embodiments disclosed withoutdeparting from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Although not intended to be limiting, a “smartlink” system in apreferred embodiment is a system that includes a smartlink server andsmartlink capable device. A smartlink server is a computer or processingsystem that maintains information about users of smartlink capabledevices. This information may include a user's account information,device information, and the like. The smartlink server is capable ofcommunicating with a user's smartlink capable device through cellularcommunications as is conventionally known. The smartlink server iscapable of communicating with other computer servers (of seller's,banks, and other institutions) through conventional means. A smartlinkcapable device can be any such embodiment or aspect of the inventiondescribed below.

FIG. 1 shows a smartlink module 100 coupled to mobile communicationdevice 110, e.g., a cell phone, in accordance with an exemplaryembodiment of the invention. The mobile communication device 110controls and exchanges information with the smartlink module 100, whichis explained in greater detail below. In a preferred embodiment, themobile communication device 110 has a processing unit using a Java J2MEengine. Although described with reference to a the mobile communicationdevice 110 having a Java J2ME engine, the invention is not intended onbeing so limited.

FIG. 2 is a front-side, cut away view of a smartlink module 100 inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.Smartlink module 100 includes processing chip 210 and antennas 250, 260.Smartlink module 100 also includes communication connection pins 240 andmounting clips 230.

The processing chip 210—e.g., smartchip—provides processing and memorystorage including, but not limited to data conversion processing. Onefeature of processing chip 210 is that it converts data between radiowaves and digital/analog signals. Typically, communication betweencontactless Smartcard devices utilizes radio waves in the form ofdigital packets. In a preferred embodiment, processing chip 210 convertsdata received in the form of radio waves by one of the antennae 250, 260to data in the form of digital/analog signals that are then provided tothe mobile communication device 110 (FIG. 2) through communication path280 and connection pin 240. Further, the processing chip 210 convertsfrom data in the form of digital/analog signals that are received fromthe mobile communication device 110 through communication path 280 andconnection pin 240 to the form of radio waves provided to the antennaethat will be transmitted by one of the antennae 250, 260. It is knownwith those with skill in the art how a processing chip 210 converts databetween the form of radio waves and the form of the digital/analogsignals utilized by a mobile communication device 110, or other deviceincorporating a smartcard transceiver. For example, a mobilecommunication device 110 through the smartlink module 100 (FIG. 1) canexchange information with a POS device (not shown) having a smartcardreader/writer, e.g., a smartcard transceiver. In a preferred embodiment,the processing chip 210 is similar to a smartcard chip in a conventionalsmartcard that conforms with ISO standards. Although generally describedwith processing chip 210 performing processing steps, the invention isnot intended to be so limited. Processing may also be performed, forexample, by a mobile communication device 110 coupled to the processingchip 210 or by a server.

The processing chip 210 is preferably preprogrammed with aninitialization program, which is described more fully below. Further,the processing chip 210 in each smartlink module 100 is pre-programmedwith a unique identification code, which is coded on each processingchip 210. In a preferred embodiment, the hard coding of theidentification code occurs during manufacture. In other aspects, thehard coding of the identification code occurs after the manufacture ofthe chip.

Antennas 250, 260 provide wireless communication with another devicecapable of sending and/or receiving Smartcard signals. In a preferredembodiment, one of antennas 250, 260 is used for very short rangecommunications, where the distance between the antennae 250, 260 and another smartcard transmitter/receiver, e.g., a POS unit contactlessmodule, is only a few inches. The other of the antennae 250, 260 is usedfor longer range communications, where the distance between the antennae250, 260 and the other transmitter/receiver is several feet. In apreferred embodiment, a smartlink module 100 will use conventionalcontactless Smartcard radio frequencies as established by ISOstandards—125 kHz, and 13.56 Mhz for respectively transmitting to andreceiving signals from other contactless Smartcard devices. Although theinvention is described with a number of antennae used in particularmanner and utilizing certain frequencies, the invention is not intendedto be so limited; it is anticipated that any antenna configuration atany frequency can be employed.

Communication connection pins 240 provide electronic coupling betweenthe smartlink module 100 and a mobile communication device. Thecommunication connection pins 240 are adapted to couple withcommunication pins or the port of a mobile communication device 110. Thenumber and location of communication connection pins 240 is dependent onthe particular mobile communication device 110 that the smartlink module100 is intended on being coupled with. The communication connection pins240 are electronically coupled to the chip 210 by communication paths280, respectively. Although shown with two communication paths 280, thenumber of communication paths 280 can vary.

Mounting clips 230 provide physical coupling between the smartlinkmodule 100 and a mobile communication device (as seen in FIG. 2). Thenumber and location of mounting clips 230 is dependent on the particularmobile communication device that the smartlink module 100 is intended onbeing coupled to. Although described as “clips,” the invention is notintended to be so limited and may incorporate any appropriate method offastening that couples the smartlink module 100 to a mobilecommunication device 110.

The housing 270 of a smartlink module 100 in a preferred embodiment isone inch wide by one quarter of an inch tall by one quarter of an inchdeep. However, the actual dimensions of the housing 270 can vary. Thehousing can be constructed of various materials, however, in a preferredembodiment; the housing is constructed from plastic. When a userrequests a smartlink module 100 for use with the user's mobilecommunication device 110, the user indicates the make and model of theuser's mobile communication device 110 to a smartlink module provider(e.g., a supplier, retailer, wholesaler, financial institution). Theuser is provided with a smartlink module 100 with a housing 270 adaptedto the particular make and model of mobile communication device 110.Further, the number and location of communication connection pins 240,the connection clips 230, and communication paths 280 is dependant tothe mobile communication device 110. In another aspect, the smartlinkmodule 100 is universally adaptable.

In one aspect of the invention, the mobile communication device 110controls the operation of the processing chip 210. The mobilecommunication device 110 provides a signal to the processing chip 210indicating that the processing chip 210 should be operating in eithercontactless or contact mode. In contactless mode, the processing chip210 is enabled to send and/or receive wireless signals. In contact mode,the processing chip 210 is enabled to send and/or receive directelectrically coupled signals. In a preferred embodiment, a mobilecommunication device 110 controls the processing chip 210 through theuse of an application program that resides on the mobile communicationdevice 110. For example, after the mobile communication device 110 isinitialized (as described below) a Secure transfer program resides onthe mobile communication device 110. The Secure transfer program residesas an executing process in the background of programs executing on themobile communication device 110 as a background process until activatedfor a transaction process, at which time, the Secure transfer programresides in the foreground. When a transaction process is completed, theSecure transfer program again resides as a background process.

To use the smartlink module 100 with a mobile communication device 110requires that the smartlink module 100 and mobile communication device110 combination first be initialized. When the smartlink module 100 ispreferably provided to a user an initialization program resides in thechip 210 (FIG. 2). Alternatively, for example, a user can download theinitialization program through the mobile communication device 110 viathe cellular link by dialing a designated telephone number and thenreceiving an initialization application downloaded to the mobilecommunication device. Alternatively, a user may link a mobilecommunication device 110 to another source that provides access to aninitialization application.

Initialization occurs a first time that a smartlink module 100 iscoupled to the mobile communication device 110 and the mobilecommunication device 110 is subsequently activated. For example, whenthe smartlink module 100 is first coupled and the mobile communicationdevice 110 is activated, an initialization program within the processingchip 210 of the smartlink module 100 is activated. The initializationprogram provides the processor of the mobile communication device 110with an application from the smartlink module 100 that generallyincludes two pieces of information: the address of the location fromwhich to download information, e.g., a phone number to call a link orserver connected to a location, and information on how to access acellularly connected or internet connected server located at a uniquemobile IP address.

The second piece of information is the unique identification of thesmartlink module 100, and possibly, the user's financial transactionidentification, e.g., a bank account number or credit card number of theuser. The initialization program on the mobile communication device 110initiates a call to the user's financial institution/transactioncompany, e.g., the bank or credit card company that issued the smartlinkmodule 100 or an institution that will be financially responsible forpayments. The mobile communication device 110 provides the bank the twopieces of information as well as the unique identification of the mobilecommunication device 110, e.g., the Electronic serial number. The mobilecommunication device 110 receives from the bank several pieces of dataincluding, for example, the user's name, address, phone, and otherinformation about the user, which are stored in the mobile communicationdevice 110. The bank also provides to the mobile communication device110 an application, e.g., a secure transfer program that resides in themobile communication device 110 and enables the use of the smartlinkmodule 100 with the mobile communication device 110 as described ingreater detail below.

The initialization program running on the mobile communication device110 prompts the user for a PIN number that is stored within the mobilecommunication device 110. The PIN number may also be provided to thebank and also stored at the bank. The PIN number is, for example, aseries of at least four alphanumeric characters. The PIN number helpsprevent undesirable access to the user's information stored in themobile communication device 110. In another aspect, the initializationcontinues to enable additional features. A user's PIN information (e.g.,password) is different from said user's personal information (e.g.,financial account information, credit card).

During initialization of the smartlink module 100 and mobilecommunication device 110, identifying information of the mobilecommunication device 110, e.g., the ESN or manufacturer serial number isstored in the smartlink module 100. The identifying information of themobile communication device can be supplied in many ways, including, forinstance from the financial institution, from the user during initialapplication for a smartlink or subsequently when accessed by theapplication. Also during initialization, identifying information of thesmartlink module 100, e.g. The smartlink module 100 identification code,is stored in the mobile communication device 110. In a preferredembodiment, this identifying information stored in the mobilecommunication device 110 and smartlink module 100 cannot be deleted ormodified after it is first stored.

The mobile communication device 110 also requires an application programfor a mobile communications device 110 to operate the smartlink module100. In a preferred embodiment, an application program is loaded intothe mobile communication device 100 through a cellular connection andthen stored within the mobile communication device. For example, duringinitialization, a Secure transfer program is downloaded into the mobilecommunication device 110. Preferably, after the Secure transfer programis downloaded to the mobile communication device 110, the program beginsexecution as a back ground.

After the initialization successfully occurs and during subsequent useof the mobile communication device, the smartlink module 100 is “mated”to the mobile communication device 110. A program in the smartlinkmodule 100 compares the identifying information of the mobilecommunication device 110 currently coupled to the smartlink module 100to the stored identifying information of the mobile communication device110. The smartlink module 100 is enabled to send and receive signalsonly if the current mobile communication device 110 identifyinginformation corresponds to the stored mobile communication device 110identifying information. Similarly, during subsequent use of the mobilecommunication device 110, a Secure transfer program in the mobilecommunication device 110 compares the identifying information of thesmartlink module 100 currently coupled to the mobile communicationdevice 110 to the stored identifying information of the smartlink module100. The mobile communication device 110 is enabled to send and receivesignals to the smartlink module 100 only if the current smartlink module100 identifying information corresponds to the stored smartlink module100 identifying information. In a preferred embodiment, the respectiveprograms that compare the identification numbers are part of thecircuitry of the smartlink module 100 and mobile communication device110, respectively.

FIG. 3 depicts the use of an exemplary embodiment of the invention wherea smartlink module 100 coupled with a mobile communication device 110provides information to a POS device 420 through a smartcard reader 410.In this use, the mobile communication device 110 selectively enables thesmartlink module 100 for contactless information transfer. When thesmartlink module 100 is enabled, information stored in the smartlinkmodule 100, e.g., a user's account information, is provided in the formof radio waves that can be read by a smartcard reader. The mobilecommunication device 110 enables the smartlink module 100 to operate incontactless mode after the secure transfer program has received theappropriate PIN number and authenticates that the user is the owner ofthe mobile communication device 110. Otherwise, the mobile communicationdevice 110 enables the smartlink module 100 to operate in wired modethereby disabling wireless mode.

As seen in FIG. 3 a smartlink module 100 is coupled to a mobilecommunication device 110. A PO transaction device 420, e.g., a creditcard reader or a cash register, is coupled to a Smartcard enabled radiotransmitter/receiver device 410, e.g., a contactless Smartcardreceiver/transmitter. The device 410 provides communication between thesmartlink module 100 of the mobile communication device 110 and the POtransaction device 420. The POS transaction device 420 provides data tothe radio device 410; the radio device 410 provides the data in the formof radio transmissions 452 to the smartlink module 100. The smartlinkmodule 100 provides radio transmissions 452 to the radio device 410; thetransmissions received by the radio device 410 are converted by theradio device 410 into a form recognizable by the POS device 420 andprovided to the POS device 420.

FIG. 4 depicts an exemplary use of the invention 100 in greater detail.As seen in FIG. 4, it is known that a seller's POS device 420 is adaptedto be selectively coupled to the seller's financial institution server450 through line 456, typically a telecommunication cable. Further, itis known that a mobile communication device 110 is adapted to be coupledto a wireless communication tower(s) 460 through wireless transmissions454, which is connected to the user's wireless carrier server 466through line 462, typically a telecommunication cable. Further, it isknown to be able to connect a user's wireless carrier server 466 to theuser's financial institution server 470 through line 464. It is alsoconventionally known that a user's/buyer's financial institution server470 and seller's financial institution server 450 can communicate witheach other to exchange information. In a conventional use of smartcardprocessing chip communications, information is transferred between asmartcard transmitter and a smartcard receiver in buckets of data, whichis known to those with skill in the art.

FIG. 5 depicts a flow chart indicating the method of use of an exemplaryembodiment of the invention applied in the context of a point of sale(“POS”) transaction. Once the mobile communication device 110 has beeninitialized for use with the smartlink module 100, a secure transferprogram resides in the mobile communication device 110. When the mobilecommunication device 110 is activated, the secure transfer program runsin the background of the mobile communication device 110 processes. Whenthe program is running in the background it is transparent to the user.The secure transfer program runs in a “passive” mode and waits for anactivation signal. The activation signal is, for example, a signal fromthe mobile communication device, for example, by the user entering a keysequence (e.g., one or more keys or buttons being pressed) on the mobilecommunication device. When the Secure transfer program receives theactivation signal the program becomes active and runs as a foregroundprocesses.

In the following process 500, the operation of the processing chip 210converting data from/to radio waves to digital/analog electrical signalstakes place in the background of process 500, although no specificprocess segment is specifically mentioned. (as show in FIG. 5):

In segment S500, the secure transfer program waits for a signal from amobile communication device by the user. It is assumed that before theprocess begins, the secure transfer program is running as a process inthe mobile communication device 110. The precursor steps to segment S500are that the user begins to purchase goods in a conventional manner. Thegoods are processed by the sales person at their register. When theprocessing of goods is complete, e.g., all the goods have been scanned,the items are totaled. The sales person then prompts the user for themethod of payment. The process continues to segment S501.

In segment S501, the user performs a key sequence on a mobilecommunication device 110 coupled with the smartlink module 100appropriate to activate the smart transfer program. Process continues tosegment S502.

In segment S502, the secure transfer program recognizes the key sequenceand the secure transfer program become active and executes as aforeground process in the mobile communication device. Process continuesto segment S503.

In segment S503, the secure transfer program prompts the user for hisPIN number. The process continues to segment S504. When the user entershis PIN number. The process continues to segment S505.

In segment S505, the secure transfer program compares the PIN numberentered against the PIN number stored in the mobile communicationdevice. If the comparison indicates that the PIN number matches, thenprocess proceeds to segment S506.

In segment S506, the secure transfer program of the mobile communicationdevice 110 provides a control signal to the coupled smartlink module 100to enable contactless mode. With the smartlink module 100 in contactlessmode, the smartlink module is enabled to transmit, e.g., provideinformation, stored in the smartlink module 100. The process continuesto segment S507.

In segment S507, the user places the mobile communication device 100near the seller's smartcard reader 4110 associated with the seller's POSdevice 420. The process continues to segment S508.

In segment S508, the seller's smartcard reader 410 receives informationtransmitted from the user's smartlink module 100. The process continuesto segment S509.

In segment S509, using the information received from the smartlinkmodule 100, the seller's device 410 provides that information to theseller's financial institution server 450 (FIG. 4) and traditionalprocessing POS transaction processing begins (as is conventionallyknown). The process continues to segment S510.

In segment S510, the system tests whether the transaction has beenapproved by the buyer's financial institution server 470 (FIG. 4). Theprocess continues to segment S511.

In segment S511, in another aspect of the invention, the buyer's and/orseller's financial institution server 470/450 provides an electronicreceipt to the user's mobile communication device 110. The receipt ispreferably provided in the form of a digital communication (e.g., SMS)that is stored in the mobile communication device 110. In yet anotheraspect of the invention, the user can pre-define the option where adigital receipt is sent via email to an email account of the user, withthe possibility of automatically synchronizing the information with anystandard accounting software. In another aspect of this embodiment, theseller's financial institution server 450 communicates with the user'sfinancial institution server 470, and the user's financial institutionserver 470 (FIG. 4) sends an SMS to the mobile communication device 110.The process then continues to segment S512.

In segment S512, the purchase is completed and the process continues tosegment S513.

In segment S513, the transaction is identified by the system as beingcomplete and the secure transfer program stops running as a process inthe foreground of processes in the mobile communication device 100 andbegins running as a background process. The secure transfer programawaits another signal indicating the start of another transaction. Inanother aspect of the invention, the secure transfer program ceasesexecution.

Thus, information stored in the smartlink module 100 is maintained moresecurely as the module is only in contactless mode for a short amount oftime, thereby minimizing the amount of time that a smartcard readerother than the intended reader can potentially access the informationstored on the smartlink module. Further, the smartlink module 100 is incontactless mode only after a user has provided a correct password.

In another aspect of the invention, the processing chip 210 and/or oneor both antennae 250, 260 of the smartlink module 100 are locatedpartially or fully within the housing of a mobile communication deviceand additionally may not be housed in a housing 270 (FIG. 1). In anotheraspect, one or both antennae 250, 260 are omitted and the smartlinkmodule 100 utilizes either of the antennae of coupled mobilecommunication device 110 or a different antennae connected to theprocessing chip 210. In yet another aspect, a processing chip 210 isincorporated as part of the circuitry of a mobile communication device110 or the processing chip 210 may be separate but connected to themobile communication device 110 for communications purposes. In stillanother aspect of this embodiment of the invention, the smartlink deviceis coupled to a mobile communication device 110 port, where the portpermits communication with the mobile communication device 110. Further,the port is at least partially within the housing of the mobilecommunication device 110. For example, the port is a “spring board” in aHandspring device.

In another aspect of this embodiment, the processing chip 210 isdisposed in a non-cellular communication device (“NCC device”), i.e.,device that does not have a cellular connection. In this aspect of theinvention, the NCC device operates differently from the operation of theexemplary embodiment of the invention described with reference to FIGS.4,5 in that in this aspect, the secure transfer program does not receivea transaction confirmation signal from the user's or seller's bank. TheNCC device provides financial transaction information to the POS device420 through Smartcard reader 410, and the POS device 420 initiates theconventional back-end processing of financial transactions. The POSdevice may provide a transaction confirmation signal to the NCC devicewhen the transaction is successful. The operation of the confirmationprocess would be similar to that as described with reference to FIG. 5,however, the NCC device would not receive a signal (e.g., an SMS signal)providing a receipt for the transaction (Segment S511).

FIG. 6 depicts a cut away view of a smartlink module in accordance withanother exemplary embodiment of the invention. As seen in FIG. 6,similar to smartlink 100, smartlink module 600 includes processing chip210, antennas 250, 260, communication connection pins 240 and mountingclips 230 in a housing 270.

Smartlink module 600 includes a translation circuit 685. Translationcircuit 685 facilitates communication between a mobile communicationdevice 110 and processor chip 210. In a preferred embodiment, thetranslation circuit 685 is a core logic circuit Although off-the-shelfcore circuit can be used, ASICs can also be utilized. With the use ofthe translation circuit 685, the mobile communication device 100 canwrite data to and read data from the smartlink module 600. In theembodiment of the invention described above, a user's personal data isstored in the smartlink module 100. In this embodiment of the invention,the secure transfer program of the mobile communication device 110provides data to the smartlink module 600. The secure transfer programof the mobile communication device 110 reads data from the smartlinkmodule 600. In a preferable use of this embodiment, the mobilecommunication device 110 provides a user's personal information to thesmartlink module 600 shortly before it is needed for use, i.e., beforethe smartlink module 600 provides the information. Preferably, shortlyafter the personal information is provided, the information is removed,e.g., deleted, from the smartlink module. Since a user's personalinformation is only temporarily stored in the smartlink module 600, theuser's personal information is more securely stored by remaining most ofthe time only in the mobile communication device 110. Additionally,since a user's data is only temporarily maintained in the smartlinkmodule 600, the need to securely maintain the smartlink module 600 isdecreased. Therefore, the smartlink module 600 need not always have itscontactless mode be disabled to provide additional safeguards for auser's information.

Additionally, since the secure transfer program can write selectedinformation to the smartlink module 600, the secure transfer programand/or the user can choose what information is provided to the smartlinkmodule 600. For example, for a financial transaction, a user may haveseveral different financial accounts that he has stored information inthe mobile communication device 110. Therefore, when making a purchase,he may choose which financial account he would prefer to make hispayment with, e.g., American Express or VISA. Additionally, in theinitialization process, which is similar to that described above withreference to a previous embodiment of the invention, the smartlinkmodule 600 is not coded with a user's account information.

As part of the operation of the mobile communication device coupled withthe smartlink module 600, the processing chip 600 is in conformance withthe ISO standards which does not permit a Smartcard chip to operate inboth contactless mode and contact mode at the same time. Consequently,to transfer information from the mobile communication device to thesmartlink module 600, when the smartlink module 600 is in contact mode,the secure transfer program provides information to the smartlink module600. After the secure transfer program provides a signal to thesmartlink module 600 enabling the smartlink module 600 to operate incontactless mode, the information recently provided by the securetransfer program is able to be read by a third party smartcard reader(if within appropriate proximity.)

FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of the operation of theinvention in a point of sale transaction. Once the mobile communicationdevice 110 has been initialized for use with the smartlink module 600, asecure transfer program resides on the mobile communication device 110.When the mobile communication device 110 is activated, the securetransfer program runs in the background of the mobile communicationdevice 110 processes. When the program is running in the background itis transparent to the user. The secure transfer program runs in a“passive” mode and waits for an activation signal. After receiving asignal from a device 410 the smartlink module 600 provides a signal tothe secure transfer program indicating that a smartcard device isseeking to initiate communications. Alternatively, the secure transferprogram may receive an activation signal from the mobile communicationdevice (e.g., by the user entering a key sequent on the mobilecommunication device). When the secure transfer program receives theappropriate signal it becomes active and runs in mobile communicationdevice 110 as a the foreground processes.

In segment S700, the secure transfer program awaits a signal from adevice 410 or from the mobile communication device as initiated by theuser. The precursor steps are that the customer begins to purchase goodsin a conventional manner. The goods are processed by the sales person attheir register. When the processing of goods is complete, e.g., all thegoods have been scanned, the items are totaled. The sales person thenprompts the user for the method of payment. The process continues tosegment S701.

In segment S701, the mobile communication device 110 with the coupledsmartlink module 600 is placed near the device 410. The device 410transmits a signal that can be received and recognized by the mobilecommunication device 110 and smartlink module 600 combination. Thetransmitted signal may be, for example, the total purchase price of thegoods. The process continues to segment S702.

In segment S702, the secure transfer program awaits a signal from thedevice 410. When a signal is received from the device 410, then theprocess continues to segment S703.

In segment S703, the secure transfer program recognizes the signal fromthe device 410 and sends a handshaking signal back to the device 410.The device 410 then sends a signal to the secure transfer program foradditional information. For example, the signal may indicate thepurchase price and then the mobile communication device 110 displays thepurchase price of the goods. The secure transfer program then promptsthe user to see if the user agrees with the purchase price. The processcontinues to segment S704. Alternatively, in some cases, all the POS cando is simply send a command to the smartlink to give it information andthat it is a proper and certified POS and then receive the encrypted orunencrypted information.

In segment S704, the secure transfer program requests additionalinformation from the user. If the user agrees to the purchase price asdisplayed by the register of the seller, the secure transfer programrequests the user input her/his unique PIN number. If the user agreesand enters the appropriate PIN number, then the secure transfer programextracts the secure financial data information, e.g., the credit cardnumber and associated transaction information that is stored in themobile communication device 110 or on the smartlink module 600. Ineither process, the mobile communication device 110 can prevent thesmartlink module 600 from communicating or sending information. Thesecure transfer program accesses the user's information and provides itto the processing chip 210 of the smartlink module 600. The securetransfer program enables contactless operating mode and the processingchip 210 converts that information received from the secure transferprogram into a radio frequency and transmits it through its associatedantennae (one of 250, 260). The user's secure financial data informationstored in the mobile communication device 110 is not provided without avalid PIN number. The mobile communication device 110 and smartlinkmodule 600 provide the user's secure financial data information to thedevice 410. The process continues to segment S705.

In segment S705, data is received from the mobile communication device110 and smartlink module 600 by the device 410. The device 410 providesthe user's financial data information to the POS device 420 and thetransaction approval continues in a conventional manner. The processcontinues to segment S706.

In segment S706, if the transaction has been approved by the seller'sfinancial institution, the POS system sends a signal to the smartlinkmodule 600 requesting confirmation. The smartlink module 600 receivesthe signal from the POS system, converts it from a radio signal to adigital signal, and provides that signal to the mobile communicationdevice 110. Assuming that the secure transfer program received theconverted signal, the user is then requested to confirm the amount ofpurchase in the user interface of the mobile communication device 110.In an other aspect of the invention, the user taps the mobilecommunication device and that completes the process. The processcontinues to segment S707.

In segment S707, the user is prompted to agree and confirm the purchaseon mobile communication device 110. If the user agrees, then the processcontinues to segment S709. If the user does not agree, the processcontinues to segment S708.

In segment S708 the user has declined the purchase, and the order iscancelled. The process continues to segment S712.

In segment S709, the user has accepted the purchase. The processcontinues to segment S710.

In segment S710, the secure transfer program receives a digital receiptfrom device 410 that is stored in the mobile communication device 110.In another aspect, the seller's financial institution sends an SMS tothe mobile communication device 110 providing a digital receipt. In yetanother aspect, the user receives a paper receipt from the sales person.Alternatively, the user can pre-define the option where a digitalreceipt is sent via email to an email account of the user, with thepossibility of automatically synchronizing the information with anystandard accounting software. In another aspect of this embodiment, theseller's financial institution server 450 communicates with the user'sfinancial institution server 470, and the user's financial institutionserver 470 sends an SMS to the mobile communication device 110. Thefinancial institution or credit card company or some other third party,whoever is doing the transaction in the back end, and/or the seller, hasthe ability to send a confirmation message, generally in the form of adigital receipt.

In segment S712, the transaction is complete and the secure transferprogram becomes a passive background process. Alternatively, the securetransfer program shuts off and waits for the user to activate thesmartlink via the mobile communication device to begin communicationswith the reader.

Thus, at the end of the exemplary process 700 depicted in FIG. 7, a userhas more securely provided his personal information needed for afinancial transaction by only having the information stored in thesmartlink module for a short period of time, thereby minimizing theamount of time that a smartcard reader other than the intended readercan access the information stored on the smartlink module. Although theinventions above are generally described with respect to financialtransactions, the invention is not intended to be so limited and can beused to increase the security of any type of data that can be stored ina mobile communication device.

In another embodiment of the invention, a processing chip 210 (as shownin FIG. 6), and antennae 250, 260 of a smartlink are located within thehousing of a mobile communication device. In this enablement, theantennae of the smartlink may be fully or partially within the housingof the mobile communication device. The antennae of the smartlink module600 may also be the antennae of the phone or different antennaeconnected to the processing chip 210. This embodiment differs from theprior embodiment in that the chipset of the smartlink module 600 isincorporated as part of the circuitry of the mobile communication deviceor is separate but connected to the mobile communication device forcommunications purposes. For example, the chipset is coupled to themobile communication device circuit board. Further, an antenna of thesmartlink is coupled to the mobile communication device circuit boardand is used for the smartlink transactions. In another aspect of thisembodiment of the invention, the smartlink device is coupled to a mobilecommunication device port, where the port permits communication with themobile communication device. Further, the port is at least partiallywithin the housing of the mobile communication device. For example, theport is the spring board in a Handspring device.

In another embodiment of the invention, a mobile communication device800 performs the functionality of a smartlink module (as described abovein reference to either smartlink module 100 or 600), whereby the mobilecommunication device 800 can function as a radio transceiver providingand receiving radio signals. In a preferred embodiment, the radiosignals provided by the mobile communication device 800 are smartcardcompatible signals. FIG. 8 depicts a partial cut-away view of a mobilecommunication device 800 in accordance with another exemplary embodimentof the invention. In this embodiment, the mobile communication device800 includes a radio conversion circuit 810 and antennae 850, 860.

The conversion circuit 810 is electronically coupled to a communicationbus or processor of the mobile communication device 800 throughcommunication paths 812. Radio conversion circuit 810 convertselectronic signals received on communication paths 812 to radiofrequencies that it provides on one or both of antennae 850, 860. Radioconversion circuit 810 converts radio frequencies received on one orboth of antennae 850, 860 to electronic signals provided oncommunication paths 812. The two communications paths 812 shown areintended to be representative of any number of communications pathsappropriate to exchange electronic signals between the conversioncircuit 810 and other part of the mobile communication device 800 (e.g.,a data path or processor). Although shown with the conversion circuit810 coupled to antennae 850, 860, the conversion circuit is coupled toand utilizes the antennae 817 of the mobile communication device 800 andone or both of the antennae may be eliminated. The antennae 850, 860 aretuned to provide signals compatible with the smartcard.

Unlike the smartlink modules 100, 600 described in reference to FIGS. 1and 6, the mobile communication device 800 does not follow conventionalsmartcard communication standards requiring that the a device operatingin one of either contact or contactless mode at a time (e.g., ISOstandards 7816 and 14443). The mobile communication device 800 operatesas a smartcard transceiver eliminating the process of switching betweencontact and contactless operation modes. In the current embodiment ofthe invention, the mobile communication device 800 does not need toswitch between contact and contactless operation.

In another embodiment of the invention, as seen in FIG. 9, a smartlinkcapable device 900 (i.e., this can be any device described above withreference to FIGS. 1-8, including the mobile communication device 110and smartlink module 100, the mobile communication device 110 and thesmartlink module 600 or the mobile communication device 800) is depictedas a digital cash register which provides communication to the financialinstitutions of both the user and the other party. This embodiment ofthe invention differs from the previous embodiments in that withreference to FIG. 1-8 the POS device 420 communicates with the seller'sfinancial institution server 450 to process the transaction anddetermine whether the transaction was approved. In this embodiment, thesmartlink capable device 900 communicates with the user's and theseller's financial institution server 470, 450 to process thetransaction and determine whether the transaction was approved. Further,the POS device 520 communicates to the seller's financial institutionserver 450 through the user's smartlink capable device 900 combinationdevice. The POS device 520 is similar to a conventional point of saledevice, however it uses the smartlink capable device to providecommunication to the seller's financial institution server 450 to attainapproval which is subsequently provided to the seller's POS device. Theseller's POS system may later communicate with the seller's financialinstitution.

In another aspect of the invention the seller's POS may have limitedcommunication and after the user's smartlink capable device provides thetransaction information and the transaction is approved, the seller'sPOS receives a digital signal from the seller's financial institutionindicating that the transaction is approved. The digital signal may bein the form of an SMS.

In a preferred embodiment, the signal to contact the seller's financialinstitution is transmitted by the user's smartlink capable device atsubstantially the same time the smartlink capable device 900 transmits asignal to contact the user's financial institution server 470. Forexample, both the seller's and the user's financial institutions 450,470 are contacted, where the signal 454 to contact the seller'sfinancial institution server 470 is “piggy-backed” to the signal tocontact the user's financial institution server 450.

The POS device 520 contains a contactless relay circuit 525, e.g., acontactless Smartcard reader/writer, that receives and transmitswireless signals in substantially the same frequency as conventionalSmartcard systems. The relay circuit 525 transmits a sales requestsignal requesting payment. In a preferred embodiment, the sales requestsignal from the relay circuit 525 includes transactional information,e.g., the cost of the transaction, the identification of the payee ofthe sales transaction, e.g., the seller, and additional identifyinginformation of the sales device 520. The relay circuit 525 may receive asales status signal indicating the payment has been made. The relaycircuit 525 may also receive a sales status signal indicating thepayment has been denied. The relay circuit 525 continuously transmitsthe sales request signal. Alternatively, the relay circuit 525 can beactivated by the user pressing an activation button or requesting aspecific item on the vending machine. In response, the vending machinewill request a form of payment, transmit a sales request signal, andbegin to look for a signal from a smartlink or the user's smartlinkcapable device 900. Further, the relay circuit 525 continuously checksif a sales status signal has been transmitted by a smartlink capabledevice 900. As indicated above, since a contactless smartlinkcommunication system typically has a short communication range, in orderto effectively communicate between smartlink capable device 900 and arelay circuit 525, the smartlink capable device 900 and the relay 525are placed in close proximity.

The smartlink capable device 900 receives the sales request informationsignal from the relay circuit 525. The smartlink capable device 900queries the user whether they are interested in conducting thetransaction. If the user is interested, then the user enters his/her PINnumber indicating agreement.

Using the identification of the payee received from the relay circuit525 as part of the sales request signal, the smartlink capable device900 contacts the user's financial institution, and sends a signalrequesting funds be transferred to the payee in the amount of the costof the transaction. For example, if cash is the tender, then cash istransferred from the user's bank to the payee's financial institution,where the payee's financial institution is identifiable as part of theidentification of the payee of the sales transaction. The user haspreviously established at least one financial institution, and relevantaccount information, to be used for the transfer of funds. If more thanone financial institution has been established, then the user determineseither before or during a transaction, which financial institution willserve as the user's source of payment. When the transfer of funds hasbeen successfully completed from the user's bank to the payee'sfinancial institution, the user's bank provides a signal to the user'ssmartlink capable device 900 indicating that transfer payment has beenmade.

The smartlink capable device 900 also communicates with the financialinstitution of the payee. Similar to communicating with the user'sfinancial institution, the smartlink capable device 900 uses payeeinformation (e.g., payee identification, identification of payee'sfinancial institution) received from the sales device and initiatescommunication with the payee's financial institution. In thisembodiment, the smartlink capable device 900 combination device providescommunication to both the user's and the payee's financial institutionand therefore provides the identifying address of two financialinstitutions to the smartlink capable device 900's wirelesscommunication server. Although described with reference to communicatingwith two financial institutions, the number of financial institutionsthat the smartlink capable device 900 can communicate with depends onthe implementation and can vary. This information may also be providedto a third party or a third party server (which may use the transactioninformation for other purposes, e.g., or marketing information, or toschedule supply or repair information).

When the payee's financial institution receives the appropriate amountof funds from the user's financial institution, the payee's financialinstitution provides a signal to the user's smartlink capable device 900indicating that the appropriate funds have been received and provide asignal indicating the approval of the sales transaction. The smartlinkcapable device 900 provides a sales status signal to the relay circuit525 of the sales device indicating that payment has been successfullymade and been approved. Therefore, a smartlink capable device 900requests the back end processing for the POS device and the POS devicereceives a signal from the smartlink capable device 900 indicating thatthe sales transaction has been approved by the POS's financialinstitution.

For example, a wireless relay circuit 525 is incorporated as part of apayment system of a soda machine, where the payment for the purchase ofsoda is done electronically (as opposed to conventional soda machineswhere payment is done with the use of coins and bills and the paymentsystem is receives money, provides change and enables a purchase). Theuser activates a secure transfer program on his smartlink capable device900 and places the smartlink capable device 900 in close proximity tothe relay circuit 525 of the soda machine The relay circuit is part ofthe soda machine's payment mechanism (which in conventional applicationsprocesses coins and bills). The smartlink capable device 900 receives asales request signal from the relay circuit 525 in the soda machine. Thesmartlink capable device 900 displays the cost of the transaction andqueries the user for approval or simply displays the transaction and maynot state the amount, just the transaction. Assuming the user continuesto be interested in a soda, the user enters his PIN number into thesmartlink capable device 900. The smartlink capable device 900communicates with the user's financial institution to transfer money forsoda to the payee's (e.g., the owner of the soda machine) financialinstitution. When the transfer of finds from the user's financialinstitution to the payee's financial institution is complete, the user'sfinancial institution signals the user's smartlink capable device 900that the transaction has been successful. Confirmation of the transfermay also be sent to the user via an SMS. After the user's smartlinkcapable device 900 receives a signal confirming the transfer of funds,the smartlink capable device 900 provides the sales status signal to therelay circuit 525 in the soda machine. In a preferred embodiment, thesales status signal is a digital token that allows a purchase for aspecific amount of money. Generally, the amount of money will bepredefined. After the relay circuit 525 receives the sales status signalconfirming the transfer of funds, the relay circuit 525 of the sodamachine enables the user to select a soda which will then be provided tohim. In other aspects, the soda machine may have different prices foreach soda.

FIG. 10 depicts a flow chart indicating a method of use of the exemplaryembodiment of the invention in a vending machine context. The process1000 proceeds as follows:

In segment S1000, the secure transfer program runs as a backgroundprocess in a mobile communication device waiting for activation. Theprecursor steps are that the customer interested in purchasing an itemfrom a vending machine approaches the machine.

In segment S1001, the user's smartlink capable device 900 is placed nearthe device 525. The device 525 transmits a signal that can be receivedand recognized by the smartlink capable device 900. The transmittedsignal may be, for example, the unique identifying information of thevending machine. This information may also include identification of acomputer network/server associated with the vending machine.

In segment S1002, the secure transfer program awaits a signal from thedevice 410. When a signal is received from the device 410, then theprocess continues to segment S1003.

In segment S1003, the secure transfer program recognizes the signal fromthe device 410 and sends a handshake signal back to the device 410 as isconventionally known. The device 410 then sends a signal to the securetransfer program of the smartlink capable device 900 for additionalinformation. For example, the signal may indicate the purchase priceupon which the smartlink capable device 900 displays the purchase priceof the goods. The secure transfer program then prompts the user to seeif the user agrees with the purchase price.

In segment S1004, the secure transfer program of the smartlink capabledevice 900 requests additional information from the user. If the useragrees to the purchase price, the secure transfer program requests theuser input her/his unique PIN number. If the user agrees and enters theappropriate PIN number, then the secure transfer program extracts thesecure financial data information, e.g., the credit card number andassociated transaction information that is stored in the smartlinkcapable device 900. The secure transfer program, using the user'spersonal information, establishes communication with the user'sfinancial institution and requests the transfer of finds. Once therequest is complete and accepted, process continues to segment S1005.

In segment S1005, the secure transfer program, using the informationreceived from the vending machine, communicates with the seller'sfinancial institution to receive confirmation or approval of the sale.In segment S1006, if the transaction has been approved by the seller'sfinancial institution, the seller's financial institution then sends asignal to the secure transfer program. In segment S1007, the user isprompted to place the smartlink capable device 900 near the vendingmachine and within communication range of the relay circuit 525.

In segment S1008, the secure transfer program of the smartlink capabledevice 900 enables a signal to the vending machine to the relay circuit525 of the vending machine 520. This signal may include the approvedpurchase price and may also include a security encoding or confirmationto reduce the vending machine receiving illegitimate confirmationsignals. In segment S1009, the vending machine receives the signal fromthe smartlink capable device 900 approving the transaction and permitsthe purchase. In segment S1010, the transaction is complete and thesecure transfer program awaits another signal from a device 410 toindicate commencing another transaction. Thus, at the completion of theprocess 1000, the user has purchased an item from a vending machine.

FIG. 11 shows a smartlink capable device 900 used in a transactionaccording to another embodiment of the present invention. The operationof the smartlink capable device 900 combination described with referenceto FIG. 11 differs from the operation of the smartlink capable device900 of FIG. 10 in that the smartlink capable device 900 communicateswith and conducts a financial transaction with a second, e.g., a thirdparty's, smartlink capable device 900. Similar to the FIG. 10 operation,the first smartlink capable device 900 is responsible for initiatingcommunications to the user's and third party's financial institution.The process 1200 would proceed in the following steps (as show in FIG.12):

In segment S1200, the secure transfer program runs as a backgroundprocess in a smartlink capable device 900 waiting for activation. Insegment S1201, the user's smartlink capable device 900 is placed nearthe other person's smartlink capable device 900. The other person'ssmartlink capable device 900 transmits a signal that can be received andrecognized by the user's smartlink capable device 900. In one aspect ofthe invention a secure transfer program of each party of each party mustbe initiated by the respective party and automatically controls thetransaction. In another aspect of the invention, each party initiatesthe secure transfer program and designates information necessary to thetransaction (e.g., who is the sender, receiver, amount, etc.). Thetransmitted signal may be, for example, the unique identifyinginformation of the other person's financial institution. Thisinformation may also include identification of a computer network/serverassociated with the other person's financial institution.

In segment S1202, the secure transfer program of the user's smartlinkcapable device 900 awaits a signal from the other person's smartlinkcapable device 900. When a signal is received from the other person'ssmartlink capable device 900, the process continues to segment S1203.

In segment S1203, the secure transfer program recognizes the signal fromthe other person's smartlink capable device 900 and sends a handshakingsignal back to the device 410. The device 410 then sends a signal to thesecure transfer program for additional information. For example, thesignal may indicate the transfer amount (e.g., currency and value) andwhether the funds are to be sent or received. The user's mobilecommunication device 110 displays the transfer amount. The securetransfer program then prompts the user to see if the user agrees withthe transfer amount. The process continues to segment S1204.

In segment S1204, the secure transfer program requests additionalinformation from the user. If the user agrees to the transfer amount asdisplayed on the mobile communication device 110, the secure transferprogram requests the user input her/his unique PIN number. If the useragrees and enters the appropriate PIN number, then the secure transferprogram extracts the secure financial data information, e.g., the creditcard number or debit card number, etc and associated transactioninformation that is stored in the mobile communication device 110. Thesecure transfer program, using the user's personal information,establishes communication with the user's financial institution andrequests the transfer of fluids. Once the request is complete andaccepted, process continues to segment S1205.

In segment S1205, the secure transfer program, using the informationreceived from the other person's mobile communication device 110,communicates with the other person's financial institution to receiveconfirmation or approval of the transfer.

In segment S1206, if the transaction has been approved by the otherperson's financial institution FIG. 4, the other person's financialinstitution sends a signal to the secure transfer program.

In segment S1207, the user is prompted to place the smartlink capabledevice 900 near the other person's smartlink capable device 900 andwithin communication range of each respective smartlink capable device900.

In segment S1208, the secure transfer program transmits a signal to theother person's smartlink capable device 900 through the smartlink 110.This signal may include the approved transfer amount and may alsoinclude a security encoding or confirmation. In segment S1209, thetransaction is complete and the secure transfer program awaits anothersignal from a device 410 to indicate commencing another transaction.

Thus at the completion of the process, information (money) istransferred from one party to another party.

FIG. 13 depicts a further embodiment of the smartlink capable device 900device. This embodiment differs from the embodiment described withreference to FIG. 11 in that in this aspect each smartlink 110 andmobile communication device 100 combination device uses its respectivewireless carrier to communicate with its respective financialinstitution, 470, 450.

The methods and devices and device combinations provided can be appliedto a variety of applications where increased security is sought for datatransfer.

In an exemplary use, secure data transfer is used in a Point of Saletransaction. Upon initiating point of sale, the user will be prompted bya secure transfer program of their mobile communication device to entertheir PIN number and press ok. When the user puts in the PIN number, theuser is then instructed to tap the mobile communication device to thereader of the seller. The user will have a defined period of time beforethe mobile communication device defaults back into normal security modeand restricts any information of the user to be read. Once the user hastapped the mobile communication device and given the reader itsinformation, the normal credit card processing begins. At the end of theprocessing, the user will receive an SMS or Email receipt onto theirmobile communication device to confirm the transaction which will havedetails such as time, date, amount, store, etc. In another aspect, thesecure transfer program is automatically activated when the user tapsthe mobile communication device to the reader. The secure transferprogram will automatically recognize that this is a point of saletransaction and initiate the point of sale sub-application.

In an exemplary use, secure data transfer is used in a vending machinetransaction. The user has the option of purchasing an item from thevending machine by either using cash money or smartlink. For example,the user will activate the secure transfer program on his mobilecommunications device and select the sub-application Vending Machine.Once the Vending Machine is selected, the user will be instructed to tapmobile communication device to the reader, which is on the vendingmachine. The mobile communication device will then receive the vendingmachine's ID, bank information and marketing and servicing data such asthe current amount of items sold and the vending machine's temperature.After smartlink receives this data, the user will be instructed to enterthe amount they wish to purchase, then pressing ok, then enter their PINnumber and press OK Smartlink will then send back a signal via theInternet. Since the user and vending machine's financial institutionwill be communicating with each other and with the phone, the user'smobile communication device will receive an SMS receipt to confirmcompletion of transaction, which will include the amount purchased,vending machine's ID, date and time of the transaction. The method ofusing includes a user: selecting Vending Machine application from theSecure Transfer Program of the user's mobile communication device;tapping the mobile communication device on reader; entering the amountto purchase and pressing Ok; entering the amount and PIN number andpressing OK; receive authorization; and then tapping the mobilecommunication device to reader. Then the vending machine will activateand the user selects an item. The Secure Transfer program waits for aSMS receipt.

In another exemplary use, secure data transfer is used in an arcadetransaction. The Arcade Application is similar to the vending machineexample and not only gives the user the option paying the arcade throughsmartlink, but also permits uploading the user's score and position inarcade games that are played. The mobile communication device willautomatically select the Arcade Application from the secure transferprogram. Once the Arcade Application is automatically selected, the userwill enter the amount to be purchased and will press OK. The user willthen enter his/her PIN number and press OK. When the transaction isapproved, the user will tap the mobile communication device on readeragain to start playing. The user will receive an SMS receipt confirmingtransaction completion, which will include the amount purchased, arcade,date and time. Then the mobile communication device will give the optionto upload existing position. The user will press OK and tap the mobilecommunication device on reader located on the arcade, if he wishes to doso. The user will also press OK and tap the mobile communication deviceon reader to download the ending score. The phone will inform the userthat the score has been uploaded. A method of use includes the user:tapping his mobile communication device on reader located on the arcademachine and mobile communication device will automatically selectapplication; entering the amount to be purchased and pressing OK;entering PIN number and pressing OK; tapping the mobile communicationdevice on reader; waiting for an SMS receipt (where the receipt willshow transaction completion including amount, arcade, date and time oftransaction); pressing OK and tapping the mobile communication device tothe reader on arcade machine to upload information (e.g., existingposition); pressing OK and tapping mobile communication device to thereader on arcade to upload existing score. The mobile communicationdevice will inform user that the score has been uploaded on the mobilecommunication device.

In an exemplary use, secure data transfer is used in a parking metertransaction. The Parking Meter Application allows the user to pay theparking meter by using smartlink instead of cash. For example, once theuser park his car, he will activate the secure transfer program. Themobile communication device will instruct the users to tap the mobilecommunication device on the reader associated with a parking meter andthen will automatically select Parking Meter as the sub-application. Theuser will then enter his PIN number and press OK. The secure transferprogram will instruct the user to tap the mobile communication deviceagain to begin the transaction. The mobile communication device timewill start to run. Once the user returns to the car, he will select toend transaction of the secure transfer program of the mobilecommunication device. The mobile communication device timer will stopand the user will be instructed to tap the mobile communication deviceon the reader of the parking meter to complete the transaction. Thetimer will only stop for a few seconds but will start up again if theuser does not tap the mobile communication device to completetransaction. When the transaction is complete, the mobile communicationdevice will communicate with the smartlink server to carry out thefinancial transaction with the server of the parking meter. The userwill receive an SMS receipt confirming completion of transaction, whichwill include amount, parking period, parking meter, date and time. Amethod of use includes the user: selecting the secure transfer program;tapping the mobile communication device to the reader of a parking meterand the mobile communication device will automatically select parkingmeter application; entering his PIN number and pressing OK; tapping themobile communication device to parking meter to start the clock running;selecting end transaction; tapping the mobile communication device tothe reader of the parking meter to complete transaction; waiting for anSMS receipt; and receiving an SMS receipt which confirms the transactioncompletion, which will include amount, parking period, parking meter,date and time.

Another example of an application of the invention is a person to personfinancial exchange. Person-to-person is a method of exchanging currencyin a digital mode with two smartlink enabled devices. The process isdesigned to mimic a paper currency transaction but in a digital and thussecure form. During the money exchange process, the users will have theoption of activating smartlink for giving or receiving money. Uponselecting the person to person process under the secure transfer programand selecting whether they wish to send or receive money, users will beinstructed to enter the amount they wish to transfer or credit alongwith their individual pin numbers. Once users respectively enter theirpin numbers and press ok, they will be instructed to tap mobilecommunication devices. The mobile communication devices will communicatewith their respective smartlink servers to coordinate the financialtransaction between financial institutions. The users will then receivean SMS receipt confirming completion of transaction which will includethe name of the person to whom they sent or received money, the date andtime of the transaction. The method of using includes the user:selecting the person-to-person application; selecting “send” or“receive”; if the user is the sender of the funds, entering the amountto be transferred and his PIN number; if the user is the receiver of thefunds, entering pin number; pressing OK; tapping each mobilecommunication device to each other's smartlink. The financialinstitutions are contacted via the cellular link, and transactionprocessing is done between the server's of the financial institutionsand an SMS receipt is respectively received by each party confirming thetransaction.

Another exemplary use of the present invention in is a groceryinformation transaction occurs. The Grocery Information applicationprovides a user with the option of finding product information, pricecomparison, and coupons by activating smartlink. For example, the userwill activate the secure transfer program on his mobile communicationdevice and then select the sub-application Grocery Information. Thesecure transfer program will instruct the user to tap mobilecommunication device on an RFID tag of a product. Once the mobilecommunication device is tapped, it will give the user three options:Details, Comparisons, and Coupons. By selecting “Details” the user willbe given product details such as manufacturing location and nutritionalinformation. By selecting “Comparisons” the user will be given pricecomparisons between alternative brands. Information about the productcan be provided by an RFID tag directly or by using the productidentifying information determined by the RFID tag and getting theinformation from an appropriate server. By selecting “Coupons” the userwill be informed of any available coupon for that particular product.The coupon value can then be automatically deducted from the user's billduring a Point of Sale transaction. A method of use would include theuser: selecting grocery information; tapping the mobile communicationdevice on the RFID tag; selecting among several options: Details(Options 1), Comparisons (Option2), and Coupons (Option 3). Depending onthe option, the secure transfer program will inform user of: productdetails such as manufacturing and nutritional information; pricecomparisons between products (e.g., chosen and other alternativebrands), or will inform of any available coupon for that product, whichwill be automatically discounted, during the Point of Sale process,respectively.

Digital Coupon are another example of a use of the present invention.The Digital Coupon transaction allows a person to find any availablecoupons for a particular store and to use it towards their purchase ordefine specific coupons at that store for that specific individual. Uponentering the store, a user will be able to use smartlink to verify theexistence of coupons for that particular store. For example, the userwill the activate secure transfer program and select the sub-application“Digital Coupon.” The user will be instructed to tap the mobilecommunication device to a reader of the store and the mobilecommunication device will inform the user of any particular coupon forthat store. Once the purchase is made and the Point of Sale processinitiated, discount can will be taken automatically for a transaction.

In yet another exemplary use, the present invention is used forpurchasing products at home (e.g., grocery purchases). The Home GroceryBuying Application allows a user to purchase an item from home throughthe smartlink system. For example, the user will activate securetransfer program and select the sub-application Home Grocery Buying. Themobile communication device will instruct the user to Tap Phone on RFIDTag of the selected product that is sought to be purchased. The mobilecommunication device will further instruct the user to press OK tocomplete transaction or to press Next to purchase another product aswell. Once all products are ready to be purchased, mobile communicationdevice will give the user an option to have purchase delivered to theuser's address or pickup items at store. The user will then enter a PINnumber and press OK. The mobile communication program will inform theuser of a location or store that can service the user and may beprovided a choice of stores. The user will select the store they want topurchase the items from. The smartlink server will communicate with theserver of the selected store and the user will receive a SMS receiptupon transaction completion, which will include amount purchased, store,date and time. A method of use includes a user: selecting GroceryInformation Application; selecting the Home Purchase option; tapping amobile communication device to a product; pressing OK to completetransaction or next (to purchase another product); selecting an optionto complete transaction; pressing OK to have purchase delivered to theuser's address or to pickup; entering his PIN number and pressing OK;selecting a store to service the order (e.g., among three nearestlocations); waiting for an SMS receipt. The user receives an SMS receiptconfirming transaction completion information including amount, store,date and time.

In an exemplary use, Medical chart/information use confirmation processoccurs. The Medical Charts Application will allow user to digitallytransfer insurance and/or medical information during a visit to thedoctor. For example, a user will activate his secure transfer program onhis smartcard capable device (e.g., smartcard capable device 900) uponreaching the front desk of the doctor's office. The doctor's officecomputer executes a program that connects the doctor's office computerto a third party server, e.g., a medical records server or insurancecompany server. (e.g., the program may be a web application that theDoctor's office has accessed through the Internet.) The user will tapthe smartcard capable device on a smartcard reader connected to thedoctor's medical office. The secure transfer program will receive asignal from the smartcard reader and determine the context (e.g.,medical office) and automatically select the Medical Records option. Inresponse to being prompted, the user will enter his PIN number into hissmartcard capable device which will provide access to the user'spersonal information stored in the smartcard capable device. The userwill tap the smart capable device again thereby transferring hispersonal information (e.g., name, social security number and informationaccess certificate) to the reader. The smartcard reader provides theuser's personal information to the doctor's office computer. Thedoctor's office computer, through its connection to the third partyserver, provides the user's personal information and identifyinginformation of the doctor's office (e.g., name and IP address) to thethird party server. The third party server compares the user'sinformation with information stored within the third party server, andif the user's records are a part of the third party server's records,then the third party server sends a confirmation signal back to thedoctor's office through the internet and sends by cellular communicationa confirmation signal to the user. The doctor's office now haselectronic access to the user's medical records stored electronically atthe third party server. The third party server will send, preferably bycellular communication, a signal to the user each time the doctor'soffice accesses the user's records. The user can also utilize hissmartcard capable device to prevent the doctor's office from having anyfurther access to the user's records. In this manner, the user canmonitor and control the doctor's office access to the records. Anexample of a method of using this aspect of this aspect of the inventionis seen in FIG. 14. The process 1400 would proceed in the followingsteps:

In segment S1400, the secure transfer program runs as a process in amobile communication device as a background process.

In segment S1401, the user taps his smartcard capable device on to thedevice 710.

In segment S1402, the secure transfer program awaits a signal from thedevice 710. The transmitted signal may be, for example, the uniqueidentifying information of the medical office. This information may alsoinclude identification of a computer network/server associated with themedical office. When a signal is received from the device 710, then theprocess continues to segment S1403.

In segment S1403, the secure transfer program determines the type ofsignal from the device 710 and selects the Medical Records Option. Thesecure transfer program prompts the user to confirm whether the useragrees with the medical office having access to that information (foraccess to the user's medical records).

In segment S1404, the secure transfer program requests additionalinformation from the user. If the user agrees to the medical office'saccess to the user's information, the user enters his PIN number.

In segment S1406, the user taps the smartcard capable device to theDoctor's office reader, thereby providing his personal information tothe reader.

In segment S1408, the reader provides the personal information to theDoctor's office computer server, which in turns provides thisinformation to the third party server (e.g., the medical server).

In segment S1410, the third party server compares the user's informationthat is provided with the stored information of the user. If informationagrees then the third party server sends a confirmation signal to theDoctor's office server confirming access to the user's medical records.The third party server also sends a confirmation signal to the user.

In segment S1412, the secure transfer program returns to executing as abackground process.

Thus, the doctor's office is enabled to access the user's medicalrecords at the third party server.

In another exemplary use of the present invention, a prescriptionprocess is provided. The Prescription Application offers the user acouple of options after the prescription is purchased, such as remindingthe user to take a pill and providing the user with a refill option. Theuser activates the secure transfer program and the mobile communicationdevice will instruct the user to tap mobile communication device onprescription label containing the RFID Tag. The mobile communicationdevice will then automatically select the Prescription Application. Oncethe Prescription Application is automatically selected, the mobilecommunication device will give the user the option of selecting aschedule for a reminder to remind him/her to take his/her medication(e.g., an alarm clock, the user is reminded in the morning to take apill.) The application can include a reminder for refilling theprescription. By using the refill reminder feature, the user can requestthat he be reminded a certain time period, a desired number of times,and certain times of the day before the prescription should expire. Forexample, one day before the user's pill supply is about to be depletedcompletely, the mobile communication device will ask the user if he/shewould like to refill prescription. If the answer is yes, then the mobilecommunication device will order a prescription refill.

At that point, the secure transfer program communicates through itcellular capability with the user's pharmacy (e.g., the computer systemof the user) to place an order for a refill of the prescription. Theuser will then receive a confirmation that the refill is beingprocessed. An SMS will then give the order and pick up informationindicating when the prescription is read for pickup. A method of use mayinclude the user selecting the secure transfer program to select therefill prescription option; entering yes, pressing OK and the mobilecommunication device will inform the user that a refill is beingprocessed. The user will receive an SMS receipt showing the order andpick up confirmation information. A method of use may includes a user:selecting the secure transfer program, tapping on the prescription labelcontaining the RFID and the sub-application prescription isautomatically selected, pressing OK to have secure transfer programremind the user of when to take a pill (based on quantity ofprescription, recommended usage, and the precise times based on thefirst use of the pill and corresponding to the first use of theprescription application). To use this reminder service, the reminder iseither an SMS from a cellular server or a reminder from an pill “alarmclock” on mobile communication device.

An access control system is provided as another exemplary use of thepresent invention. A user will have the option of using his key orsmartlink to enable the user access to ‘locked’ system, which may be adoor or any other similar scenario, including, for example, a computer.For example, the user will activate the secure transfer program andselect a sub-application Access Control. The user will then beinstructed to enter his/her PIN number and press Ok. Once the userenters the PIN number, the user will be instructed to tap mobilecommunication device on the reader on the door, the user's accessinformation will be provided and the door will open. A method of useincludes the user: selecting access control option, entering his/her PINnumber and pressing OK; tapping the mobile communication device onreader (which is located on the door), and the door is enabled to open(e.g., the user is permitted access).

In the context of computer access which is secured by a smartlinksystem, when the user's logs on to a computer, the computer checks thatthe user is permitted access to the computer and determines if the useris part of a smartlink system. If the user is part of the smartlinksystem, then the computer sends a message to a smartlink serverrequesting confirmation and authentication of the user. This messageincludes the identification provided by the user. The smartlink serversends a message to the user (via SMS or digital means) requestingconfirmation of access to the computer. If user confirms and sends amessage to the smartlink server, then the smartlink server sends aconfirmation message to the computer system. When the computer systemreceives confirmation signal from the smartlink server, then the user isgranted access to the computer. Therefore, the computer does notdirectly contact the user to confirm access. The user is contactedindirectly, where the smartlink server serves as the connection betweenthe computer and the user's smartlink capable device 900.

In the context of physical access to a secured area, the smartlinksystem is used to confirm identity. When a user attempts to enter anarea secured by a smartlink system, the user places his smartlinkcapable device 900 close to the smartcard receiver transmitter that iscoupled to a computer system controlling access to the secured area.After the computer system and the user's smartlink establishescommunications, the user is prompted by the secure transfer program toenter his PIN. The secure transfer program unlocks secure accessinformation stored within the smartlink capable device 900 and providesthat information to the computer system. Upon receiving and confirmingthe user's access information the computer system enables the user'saccess to the secure area.

In another embodiment of the invention, a smartlink transaction isinitiated by a third party. In this aspect, there are four elements ofthe system utilized to complete a transaction. A smartlink device, asmartlink server, a financial system, and the seller's system. Thesmartlink device, which in a preferred embodiment is a cellular mobilecommunication device, or a similar mobile communication device, is usedby the customer to securely purchase items from a seller at a distance.As it is known, a customer seeks to purchase items from a non-brick andmortar environment where the customer does not visit the seller's actuallocation, but instead accesses the seller through a form ofcommunication system, e.g., mobile communication device or Internet.After shopping and selecting certain items, the customer confirms andprocesses the purchases of the selected items from the seller from adistance by use of a communication device, coupled with smartchipsimilar to that described above. The seller's system is the computersystem maintained or operated by, or for, a seller. A financial systemis a method of financial payment that is correlated to the user of thesmartlink device. The financial system may be, for example, a creditcard, bank, or other financial institution. The seller may be, forexample, a retail shop, an online store, or other brokerage and/ortransaction broker.

A method of using the smartlink transaction is described with respect toFIG. 15. It is known for a customer to log onto the Internet andpurchase items from stores on the Internet. Typically, the customer paysfor the selected items by the use of a credit card by enteringinformation into a web page or pages of the seller. Adding a smartlinktransaction is initiated by a third party system. The security andreliability of the transaction is increased by strengthening thelikelihood that a customer who is paying for a purchase with a financialinstrument, e.g., a credit card, is also the owner of the credit card oracting under the authority of the owner of the credit card.

As seen in FIG. 15, there are four elements of the remote paymentconfirmation system. A smartlink device 900, a smartlink server 1520, afinancial system server 1510, and the seller's system server 1530. Thesmartlink device 900, which in a preferred embodiment, is a smartlinkcapable device 900 similar to that described above. The seller's systemserver 1530 is the computer system maintained or operated by, or for, aseller. A financial system server 1510 is associated with the user'sfinancial institution. The financial system may be, for example, acredit card, a bank, or an other financial institution. The seller maybe, for example, a retail shop, an online store, or other brokerageand/or transaction broker. In this embodiment of the invention, a remotesmartlink transaction is initiated by a third system, e.g., the seller'ssystem 1530.

A method of using the remote smartlink transaction is described withrespect to FIG. 16. As seen in FIG. 16, in segment S1802, a user selectsthe item(s) that he wishes to purchase. If, for example, the seller isan e-merchant that is accessible on-line, the user may select a seriesof items from the choices provided by the seller and places them in hisshopping cart. In another aspect, a user may contact and select itemsfrom a seller by mobile communication device. In segment S1804, the userproceeds to pay for the items chosen. In segment S1806, the selecteditems for purchase are totaled.

In segment S1812, the user selects a method of payment. In an on-linepurchase environment, for example, the user will select his preferredmethod of payment by clicking on the icon representing the paymentmethod or otherwise indicating his decision. In a mobile communicationdevice purchase environment, for example, the user will select thepayment method by telling the seller (or the seller's agent) hispreferred method of payment. In a preferred approach, the user selectssmartlink Financial as the preferred method of payment. The user'sselection is received by the seller's system.

In segment S1814, the seller's system determines what method wasselected or chosen by the user and communicates with the respectiveserver of the payment method. For example, if the user chose VISA, theseller's system will communicate with the VISA server. If the userselected smartlink Financial as the method of payment, then the processcontinues to segment S1816.

In segment S1816, the seller's system requests identifying informationfrom the user. The identifying information is used to associate the userwith the transaction. The identifying information can be, for example, asmartlink account number or the user's mobile communication devicenumber that the user desires to use for the transaction. In segmentS1818, the seller's system communicates identifying information to asmartlink server. In segment S1820, the smartlink system a receives theidentifying information and determines the associated user.

In segment S1822, the smartlink server will send the customer—to theuser's mobile communication device equipped with the smartlink system—asignal asking if customer had requested to purchase some items fromseller and requests confirmation. In a preferred embodiment, this is adigital communication, mostly likely in the form of an SMS. In segmentS1823, after receiving the SMS signal, the user can send a signal backto the smartlink system confirming the transaction. In one aspect, eachitem, and possibly the price, is displayed on the user's mobilecommunication device so that the user can confirm the purchase of eachitem. In another aspect, the seller's information is displayed and thetotal purchase price is presented for the approval of the user. Insegment S1824, the smartlink awaits the confirmation signal(s) from theuser. If, and when, the confirmation signal is received from the user,the process continues to segment S1826. In segment S1826, if user hasdeclined, then the purchase is canceled.

In segment S1826, if user has accepted, then process continues tosegment S1832. In segment S1832, the smartlink application will thenrequest that the user enter his PIN number. In segment S1834, if the PINnumber is accepted, then the smartlink application on the mobilecommunication device will unencrypt the information that is notunencrypted, and the information (which may be encrypted or unencrypted)is then sent to the financial server with acceptance certificates andthe server unencrypts. The user's financial information stored in themobile communication device and transmits it to the smartlink server.The user's information sent to the financial server will be encrypted.In general, the information sent to the financial server is, forexample, an encrypted certificate and acceptance command as well as theuser's information such as address, name, credit card number, etc. Thisinformation will typically include the user's billing and preferredshipping address as well as contact information (day and evening mobilecommunication device numbers, possibly even an email address). In thisaspect, the user is not required to enter this information as part of apurchase, but the information is added to the purchase as part of thesmartlink exchange of information with the seller's server.

In segment S1840 the financial institution's server communicates to theseller to confirm approval or the third party server's communicates tothe financial institutions server to confirm the purchase and then thefinancial institution's server communicates to the sellers server (thisassumes that the financial institution has also approved thetransaction, i.e., that the user has a sufficient amount of funds orline of credit available for the desired transaction.) The processcontinues to segment S1842.

In segment S1842, once the transaction confirmation and approval isprovided to the seller's server, the user is provided a signal,preferably a digital communication in the form of an SMS, reflectingthat a purchase has been processed from a specific store and can includetotal amount, items, etc. The process continues to segment S1880.

In segment S1880, the process ends.

Thus, a remotely conducted financial transaction is confirmed bycontacting the user associated with the payment method and receivingconfirmation from him. In another aspect, the financial institution andthe smartlink server are part of a single system. This is depicted inFIG. 15 as Financial/smartlink server 1510/1520. In yet another aspect aconvention mobile user interface 1501 which does not include a smartlinkmodule (FIGS. 1-7) or embedded smartlink (FIG. 8) is used place of asmartlink capable device 900 in a remotely conducted financialtransaction as described with respect to FIGS. 15 and 16.

In another aspect of the invention, the user's smartlink systeminitiates and facilitates the processing of a financial transaction. Theprocess is initiated when the user with a smartlink device approachesand taps (places it very close to) the smartlink device to the smartlinkreader. The secure transfer program recognizes the process necessarythat corresponding to the reader and starts that process. The userinputs their PIN to release encrypted information. The mobilecommunication device sends this information to the user's bank and tothe seller's bank. Once the two banks communicate and the transaction isapproved, one of the banks sends a signal to the user's mobilecommunication device with a certificate (to show authenticity) and anelectronic token (which represents a certain value). The mobilecommunication device is tapped on the smartcard reader and sends thisinformation to the smartcard reader/relay circuit. The smartcard readerprocesses the transaction if the certificate and the value areappropriate.

Many of the advantages of the present invention are apparent whenlooking at some of the many different applications of the presentinvention. Not limited to sales, the methods and apparatus describedabove can be used for any financial or information transaction, accesscontrol of systems and facilities, access or remote access toinformation warehouses such as medical database, etc. For example, themethods and apparatus described above can be used to transfer money fromthe user's account to another party's account, where the informationnecessary to conduct the transaction is transferred to the user's mobilecommunication device, by placing the user's mobile communication devicein close proximity to the other party's mobile communication device.Both the user's mobile communication device and the other party's mobilecommunication device have secure cellular network connections to thefinancial institution's servers. All transactions can be tracked, so ifa user provides another party with a balance transfer, the transactionis tracked to show where the funds are transferred to. As inconventional funds transfers, the user's and other party's financialinstitution records transactions, and the records of these transactionsare maintained by the respective financial institutions.

In another aspect of the invention, the secure transfer program has morethan one type of transaction that it can process. For example, thesecure transfer program can process POS sales and also process accesscontrol. In an aspect, when the secure transfer program becomes active,(e.g., after receiving a signal in a smartcard frequency from asmartcard receiver/transmitter), the secure transfer program will promptthe user to select which type of process the user would like to conduct.Once selected, the secure transfer program then executes the appropriateprocess.

In another aspect of the invention, the secure transfer program willrecognize the appropriate type of transaction that the user is mostlikely interested in conducting. In this aspect a signal from asmartcard receiver/transmitter will include an identification of thecontext or type of transaction system that it is a part of. When thesecure transfer program is not already executing a process and itreceives a signal from a smartcard receiving/transmitter, the programwill examine the signal to determine if it contains informationidentifying the context of the transaction. If the signal does includecontextual information, then the secure transfer program begins aconfirmation process for that context. For example, in a point of salecontext, the POS smartcard receiver/transmitter will transmit signalsthat includes a signal indicating that the context is POS. If the securetransfer program identifies the context as a POS, then the securetransfer program will commence the confirmation process.

While the invention has been described and illustrated with reference tospecific exemplary embodiments, it should be understood that manymodifications and substitutions could be made without departing from thespirit and scope of the invention, even though a particular embodimentis not specifically described. For example, the different processingsegments described above are not limited to those segments or that orderof segments, segments may be omitted and still maintain the spirit andscope of the invention. Although generally the description above refersto a processing chip, it should not be so limited and can include manyother implementations and instrumentalities. The chip could be, forexample, a microprocessor, an integrated circuit, transceiver, ormodule. Although the inventions above are generally described withrespect to financial transactions, the invention is not intended to beso limited and can be used to increase the security of any type of datathat can be stored in a mobile communication device. Although describedas a mobile communication device and the invention is not so limited andcan include various mobile user interfaces including cellular phones,mobile communicators, personal digital assistants, portable processingdevices, keyboard, keypads, and biometric devices.

Additionally, although several different embodiments and aspects of theinvention are described above, the methods of use are applicable toevery variation of the invention although each embodiment may require amodification of the methods of necessary to be adapted to eachinvention. Further adaptation of the methods of use may be required forthe use of the invention in different contexts.

Additionally, although examples are described with respect to thetransfer of funds, the invention is not so limited and theimplementation of the invention may also include acceptance of credit.For example, the user's financial institution may provide the sellerwith a indication that maybe will be made at a future date and seller'swill accept this indication and permit a transaction to continue as ifthe money had actually been transferred. This most likely would be occurwhere the user's financial institution is a credit card company; thecredit card company may not “pay” (transfer funds) contemporaneous withthe user's purchase, but instead may transfer funds at a later time.Although not expressly indicated, the secure transfer program in eachembodiment and/or aspect of the invention may be different. The programmay also vary depending on the type and model of mobile communicationdevice used. Further, there are different methods of confirming theprocessing (e.g., “getting approval”) with the use of the embodimentsdescribed above, and the invention is not intended to be so limited.Although the embodiments are generally described with respect to aseller's computer system communicating with a financial institution, theinvention is not intended to be so limited and the seller's system cancommunicate with more than one financial institution.

Additionally, in many of the aspects described above, a noncommunication device can be used in place of a mobile communicationdevice. For example, a personal digital assistant can be coupled with asmartlink module. Furthermore, although the above descriptions refer toconfirmation/authentication of an owner and/or user, the invention isnot meant to be limited to the actual owner/user. For example, a usertells a third party his PIN number so that the third party can use theuser's mobile communication device to perform a transaction. (e.g.,purchase a soft drink). Although some of the inventions are described ashaving devices or circuit being in compliance with establishedstandards, e.g., ISO standards, the invention is not intended on beingso limited. For example, a mobile communication device may communicatewith a smartlink processing chip in a contact mode following ISOstandard 7816. However, the operating system in a mobile communicationdevice maybe designed to communicate with the processing chip in acontact mode using any conventional communication standard.

Furthermore, in the processes/methods of use descriptions above,separate processes/segments may be combined into a singleprocess/segments therefore reducing the number distinctprocesses/segments and visa versa; process that are represented as asingle segment, may be broken down into a plurality of segments. When adescription above refers to a transfer of money, this is not meant to belimited to an actual transfer of money, but may include other transfersincluding where the transferee may anticipate that the transfer willoccur and approve the transaction before the money is transferred.

In the descriptions above, a secure transfer program may be a singleprogram or application, a program/application with sub-programs and/orsub-applications, or it may be many programs and/or applications. Asecure transfer program may have different requirements to properlyexecute the appropriate transaction process. For example, a securetransfer program for a vending machine context is likely to be differentfrom a secure transfer program for a point of sale scenario.Additionally, the selection of the appropriate secure transfer programfor a transaction context may be done manually by a user or it might bedone automatically by a secure transfer program recognizing the contextin which it is being used. An automatic recognition feature may be basedon a secure transfer program recognizing and identifying a signal from asmartcard transceiver. For example, a secure transfer program of amobile communications device will recognize the context as a vendingmachine when the mobile communication device is held dose enough to thevending machine and the mobile communications device receives a signalfrom the vending machine and identifies that signal as coming from avending machine.

Additionally, although not necessarily expressly stated in theembodiments and aspects of the invention described above, a smartlinksystem is intended to generally include a mobile communications devicewith a smartlink module, or smartlink module functionality, and asmartlink server. In the preferred embodiments, the smartlink server isa computer system which stores information of a user and can communicatewith the mobile communication device of the user by cellular connectionor other appropriate means. The smartlink server can communicate withthird party computer systems (e.g., of a seller or other third party) toexchange information and/or to provide and/or receive payment.

Accordingly, the invention is not to be considered as limited by theforegoing description but is only limited by the scope of the claims.

1-55. (canceled)
 56. A nearfield communication module, comprising: asmartcard chip for controlling a conversion of radio waves intoelectrical signals, for converting electrical signals into radio waves,said electrical signals being either analog or digital signals, saidradiowaves being substantially in the form of near field communicationfrequencies; where said smartcard chip is configured to authenticate amobile communication device coupled to said nearfield communicationmodule before said smartcard chip causes said radiowaves to be provided.